HBC Signals Growing Interest in China Manufacturing

Hawker Beechcraft (HBC) is holding preliminary discussions about expanding manufacturing operations into China, according to a company spokeswoman, who confirmed reports of HBC’s growing interest in the China market. Company CEO Bill Boisture has visited China a few times in recent months, she said, but HBC hasn’t yet publicly identified Chinese companies with which it might partner. The initial focus would be on business jet manufacturing opportunities in China, which could begin with parts manufacturing. The issue of whether HBC manufacturing operations in China would include technology transfer is “still under discussion,” she said. “We’ve been very clear about our interest in that market.” Last year, HBC expanded its global service network with the appointment of Scott Wells as the Beijing-based field service representative for China and north Asian markets and added two more sales team members in the Asia-Pacific region. “We see that there is great growth potential there,” she said. “We’re looking to [expand] our footprint and how we’re supporting the customer in that region.” There are 20 Hawker Beechcraft aircraft based in China, an 18-percent market share.